"Mitchell Bard has a way of taking complex and important topics and explaining them simply. If ever there was a time to explain to a wide audience why Israel matters, this is surely that time."
—Dennis B. Ross
The Washington Institute for Near East Policy
Former Special Assistant to the President for Middle East, Afghanistan, and South Asia (2009-2011)

"Bard provides a noble service for students who want to connect with and learn about a nation-state that has changed the world.”
—Senator Joe Lieberman
United States Senator for Connecticut

Finally, a resource to help young people—or anyone—sort out their responses to controversy over Israel.

Israel Matters offers an in-depth look at Israel's history and its security situation. It explores the historical and political forces that created the Jewish state, influence the unrest in the Palestinian territories, shape the peace process, and affect Israel's security today. It can help readers understand the diversity of the land and the people, the significance of the Law of Return, and Israel's importance to America's interests. Get the facts you need to understand the complexity of Israel today, and discover how Israel matters to everyone.

Includes source material, portraits of young Israelis, maps, charts, glossary, and a timeline.

Contents:

• Introduction
• Chapter 1: A Vibrant Country
• Chapter 2: Jewish Land, Jewish Nation
• Chapter 3: The Birth of Two Religions
• Chapter 4: The Rise of Zionism
• Chapter 5: Carving Out A Homeland
• Chapter 6: Fighting for Independence
• Chapter 7: Building A New Country
• Chapter 8: The Challenge of Territory
• Chapter 9: A Bit of Peace, More Battles
• Chapter 10: Waging Peace
• Chapter 11: Balancing Peace and Security
• Chapter 12: Trading Land for Peace

About the Author

Mitchell Bard is Executive Director of the American-Israeli Cooperative (AICE), Director of the Jewish Virtual Library, and a leading authority on US-Middle East policy.

Find the author bio, testimonials, Israel resources and more at http://www.behrmanhouse.com/israel-matters